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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Live from the floor of the L.A. Auto Show, James Bell, Head of Consumer Affairs, General Motors. James talks about all the latest trends expected to come out of this year's show and gives us a sneak peek at what was revealed.

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Since November is Diabetes Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to find out about one of the heroes within the diabetes community.

Charlie continues to be the first licensed driver with diabetes to win an INDYCAR race. But what really sets this racer apart may be his fan base. The diabetes community stands strong behind Kimball, who is making great strides while living with diabetes. For many patients and their families, the diagnosis can be daunting. For Kimball, his diagnosis 7 years ago (October 16, 2007) almost caused him to give up his dream of racing at the highest level.

Charlie Joins us to discuss his challenges, how he's worked to overcome them, and offer advice to others.

Check out the interview below:

Charlie Kimball is an open-wheel race car driver with Novo Nordisk Chip Ganassi Racing with the Verizon INDYCAR series. Now in his fourth INDYCAR season, Kimball, driver of the No. 83 Chevrolet, is the first and only licensed driver with diabetes in the history of INDYCAR to win a race. He also is the first driver with diabetes to qualify for, compete, and lead laps at the famed Indianapolis 500!

I want to thank Novo Nordisk for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Charlie Kimball for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Thursday, October 16, 2014

This season has been most challenging for Cole, who has lived through wrecks at major races and the sale of his original team. Today, the phenom rookie NASCAR driver is shinning the spotlight on his fans, partnering up with Speed Stick Gear to see how guys everywhere are gearing up for their own everyday challenges.

Cole Whitt, American Stock Car Diver, and Rookie of the Year Candidate shares his thoughts on the upcoming Talladega Race, his new team, and what it feels like to be a rookie in a league stacked with some of the biggest names in the sport.

Check out the interview below:

About the Talent:
Cole Whitt drives the No. 26 Toyota Camry for BK Racing in the NASCAR Sport Cup Series. Cole will be in the car fulltime in 2014 competing in the 36 high profile races. Cole, 23 is a candidate for Rookie of the Year in the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. In addition to competing against the best drivers in the world on the track, Cole maintains a high social media presence with fans including nearly 37,000 followers on Twitter and nearly 10,000 "Likes" on his Facebook page. His NASCAR career includes four years on the circuit and 102 races in which Cole has competed in each vitally important building block series such as the NASCAR K&N Pro Series (10); NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (27); NASCAR Nationwide Series (51) and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (14). During this time Cole's performance has earned his teams $3,018,764 in winnings.

I want to thank Speed Stick Gear for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Cole Whitt for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

From October 15 to November 2, fans can enter the Men's Speed Stick #GearUp sweepstakes by tweeting a photo of themselves taking on a personal challenge and the hashtag #GearUpSweepsEntry to @SpeedStick.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Whether it's hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires or earthquakes; being properly prepared in the event of a disaster can save your life and lives of your loved ones. But people don't always take the time or the steps to properly prepare.

Check out my interview with OnStar Crisis Incident Manager Mary Ann Adams and GM Head of Consumer Affairs James Bell from General Motors, as they share advice on how to be prepared for any emergency or disaster.

Check out the interview here:

About the talent:
Mary Ann Adams joined OnStar in 2003 and is responsible for the customer experience during severe weather, crisis and large scale emergency events. She was appointed to her current position in 2007 where she oversees the day-to-day activities of event monitoring and incident management relative to OnStar's response to support its subscribers. She began her career in the field of market research focusing on customer satisfaction, expanding her role in meeting customer expectations and business management where she developed and managed an outsourced call center. Adams received both a bachelor and master's degrees of Business Administration from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast. Prior to joining GM, James was Vice President of Corporate Communications and Executive Market Analyst for Kelley Blue Book. In this role, he was charged with promoting the KBB.com brand and driving traffic to its award-winning Web site. Bell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications and Political Science from California State University.

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Mary Ann Adams and James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions. I want to apologize to Mary Ann for calling her Mary during the interview.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Are you ready for some "Tail-Gaming"? Football fans everywhere are getting ready for the season and when it comes to tailgating, the fun is becoming increasingly hi-tech.

Check out my interview with Seann Graddy from EA Sports and James Bell from General Motors, as they share their tips on how to turn your vehicle into the ultimate hi-tech tailgating truck using 4G technology built into GMC's latest vehicles, 2015 GMC Canyon and Yukon. Seann and James show how cans can be the envy at any stadium with the ability to play games online between two stationary vehicles while tailgating or even with gamers at other locations!

Now fans can combine their love of football, video games and tailgating and take the party to a new level.

Check out the interview here:

About the talent:
Seann Graddy is the Senior Producer on EA Sports Madden NFL 15. He has over 15 years' experience leading a broad spectrum of software engineers, producers, artists, testers, project managers, and managers in a variety of entertainment based software development products focusing on results that matter.

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast. Prior to joining GM, James was Vice President of Corporate Communications and Executive Market Analyst for Kelley Blue Book. In this role, he was charged with promoting the KBB.com brand and driving traffic to its award-winning Web site. Bell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications and Political Science from California State University.

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Seann Graddy and James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Monday, August 4, 2014

I cannot drive anywhere in my Nissan Juke without listening to music. As soon as I get in my car, I unlock
my phone, open Google Music and hit the play button. Aside from being a car enthusiast, I LOVE listening to music!!!

Check out these ten songs added to my Juke's playlist this week:

1. "Do a Little Dance" - Joe

2. "You Don't Know What To Do" - Mariah Carey Ft. Wale

3. "Breakdown"- Prince

4. "Sweat" - Toni Braxton & Babyface

5. "Options" - Luke James ft. Rick Ross

6. "Last Call" - Traci Braxton

7. "It's You" - Kem

8. "I Deserve It" - Faith Evans ft. Missy Elliot & Sharaya J.

9. "Money Can't Buy" - Ne-Yo ft. Jezzy

10. "Dumb" - Jazmine Sullivan ft. Meek Mill

If you're a fan of good music, please go ahead and listen to these songs!

What songs do you play in your vehicle?

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Check out my interview with Steve Tihanyi, GM's General Director for Branded Entertainment, and James Bell, Head of Consumer Affairs, General Motors as they tell us about the custom concept cars built just for this movie and share behind the scenes footage from the set of the film.

About the talent:
Steve Tihanyi is responsible for strategic development and tactical execution of all GM branded entertainment initiatives working with major studios, television networks and producers. Global auto shows, licensing and vehicle management also fall under his preview. Additionally, he oversees key marketing alliances such as the NFL, Major League Baseball, NCAA and the GM Test Track at Disney's Epcot World. Prior to returning to GM's Detroit headquarters, Tihanyi had been in the North Central region serving as the Regional Divisional Marketing Manager for the Cadillac, Hummer and Saab brands managing all the marketing activity across 11 states working closely with the retail dealer network.

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast. Prior to joining GM, James was Vice President of Corporate Communications and Executive Market Analyst for Kelley Blue Book. In this role, he was charged with promoting the KBB.com brand and driving traffic to its award-winning Web site. Bell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications and Political Science from California State University.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Steve Tihanyi and James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Would you be interested in a $6,800 and 84 MPG vehicle? Elio Motors Founder Paul Elio discusses how he came up with the idea for the Elio and explains all of the vehicle's features, and when and where you will be able to get one.

About the talent:
Paul Elio, a former New York City cab driver, went back to school and got his engineering degree at age 31. He launched a successful engineering company, and today is living a life-long dream to own a car-company. Elio Motors was founded in 2008 after Paul had an idea centered on creating a vehicle for today's generation of drivers that addresses their transportation needs and the world's realities. The mission is to provide affordable transportation to those commuters seeking an alternative and to provide vital American jobs.

Sunday, June 1, 2014

Interested in the latest and greatest in auto tech safety, security, audio and connectivity technologies? Samantha Nevels discusses new innovations for better safety and security, the latest in sound technology and advanced connectivity for smartphones and tablets. Nevels shows you how to turn any car, into a connected car from Consumer Electronics Association headquarters.

About the talent:

Samantha Nevels is a spokeswoman for the Consumer Electronic Association’s auto division. Before coming to CEA, Samantha spent several years in a press office on Capitol Hill. She graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a B.A. degree in Political Science and Business Economics; and is currently pursuing a Masters in Media and Public Affairs from George Washington University.

About CEA: The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the technology trade association representing the $208 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry servicesFind CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank the Consumer Electronics Association for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Samantha Nevels for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

According to the National Household Travel Survey, the average summer long-distance trip is 284 miles one-way with 90% of summer trips taken in personal vehicles. In this interview, Rayola Dougher (Ray-ola Doer) of the American Petroleum Institute, shares some tried and true tips, and maybe some you've never heard, for maximizing fuel efficiency and cutting costs at the pump.

About the talent:Rayola Dougher is a senior economic advisor for the American Petroleum Institute (API) and is with the Institute's Office of the Chief Economist. Ms. Dougher has been with API since 1985 and is the author or co-author of numerous economic research studies covering a diverse range of topics, including gasoline taxes, energy conservation and competition in retail markets. She is one of the Institute's principal spokespersons. Her efforts focus on informing policymakers, the media and the public on energy market issues and trends. In addition to testifying before federal and state legislators, she has participated in numerous newspaper and radio interviews and has appeared on NBC's Today Show and Nightly News, ABC World News Tonight, CNN, MSNBC, CNBC, Fox News, the CBS Morning Show, and The News Hour with Jim Lehrer.
Check out the interview below:

I want to thank the American Petroleum Institute for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Rayola Dougher for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Friday, April 18, 2014

The 2015 Dodge Challenger and Charger made their debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. The Challenger and Charger get a exterior refresh and changes to the interior.

2015 Dodge Charger

I'm loving the new face of the 2015 Charger! I still find the new face aggressive. The updated Challenger is quite a looker too! I think that Dodge has been putting out some great designs and I'm happy that they keep getting better and better.

2015 Dodge Challenger

2015 Dodge Challenger Interior

What are your thoughts on the refreshed Dodge Challenger and Charger?

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

About the talent:
With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Monday, April 14, 2014

Nissan just revealed the all-new 2015 Nissan Murano on Kelly & Michael. The Murano has lost some of its edge when it first arrived on the market in 2003. But this all-new design brings the edge and more.

The '15 Murano retains its 3.5L V6 engine producing 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine will be paired to an updated Xtronic CVT. Fuel economy should improve by 20% thanks to a 0.31 coefficient of drag and being 130 lbs lighter.

I hope that the Murano drives as good as it looks!

The all-new Nissan Murano is set to go on sale in late 2014.

For more details on the new Murano please be sure to check back later this week when it makes its official reveal at the 2014 New York Auto Show.

Friday, March 28, 2014

Check out my interview with Joe DeMatio, Deputy Editor, Automobile Magazine and James Bell, Head of Consumer Affairs for General Motors as they discuss new safety technologies, how they work and the top most affordable cars equipped with these technologies.

About the talent:
Joe DeMatio joined Automobile Magazine, America's premiere automotive enthusiast lifestyle magazine, shortly after graduating from the University of Michigan. He's held nearly every writing and editing position at the magazine and now serves as deputy editor. Joe has also appeared as a guest on many top news outlets such as CNN, Fox Business and CNBC as well as on radio and TV stations all over the country. When he's not arranging photo shoots, editing copy, or racking up speeding tickets in sports cars and high-powered luxury sedans, he cares for his three German Shepherds, hosts lavish dinner parties, and occasionally runs a half-marathon.

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Joe DeMatio and James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Cole Whitt, American Stock Car Driver and Rookie of the Year Candidate in the 2014 NASCAR Sprint

Cup Series is preparing for the Daytona 500. Whitt talks about how he is preparing for the big race, what goes through his mind, and his upcoming documentary. The Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, February 23, 2014.

Cole Whitt drives the No. 26 Toyota Camry for Swan racing in the NASCAR Sport Cup Series. Cole will be in the car fulltime in 2014 competing in the 36 high profile races. Cole, 22 is considered one of the bright up and coming stars of NASCAR Rookie of the Year honors. In addition to competing against the best drivers in the world on the track, Cole maintains a high social media presence with fans including nearly 37,000 followers on Twitter and nearly 10,000 "Likes" on his Facebook page. His NASCAR Career includes four years on the circuit and 102 races in which Cole has competed in each vitally important building block series such as the NASCAR K&N Pro Series (10); NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (27); NASCAR Nationwide Series (51) and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (14). During this time Cole's performance has earned his teams $3,018,764 in winnings.

Check out the interview below:

Swan Racing is a professional stock-car racing team, based in Statesville, N.C., that competes full-time in 36 nationally televised races in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Swan Racing fields two teams driven by Cole Whitt (No. 26) and Parker Kligerman (No. 30). The team is owned by Swan Energy CEO Brandon Davis.

Beginning March 2014, a documentary series featuring Whitt's journey to the Daytona 500 will be available on the SpeedStick YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/speedstick.

I want to thank Speed Stick Gear for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank Cole Whitt for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Live from the floor of the North American International Auto Show, James Bell, Head of Consumer Affairs, General Motors. Mr. Bell talks about the latest reveals, Chevrolet winning NACOTY and NATOTY awards, and other auto show news! .

With over 16 years of experience, James Bell is a nationally recognized and authoritative resource within the automotive industry. During his tenure, James has diligently analyzed and effectively communicated automotive data and research to multiple constituencies, including the national and international media, automotive manufacturers, dealers, and the every-day shopper. His multifaceted experience has led to a unique perspective on the industry that easily crosses over the boundaries between the general consumer and passionate enthusiast.

Check out the interview below:

I want to thank General Motors for this interview opportunity! I also want to thank James Bell for taking out the time to discuss and answer my questions.

Please click the "Join this site" button on the right hand side, subscribe, and check out my other posts!

The '15 Chrysler 200 is built on the CUSM platform, which also underpins the Dodge Dart and Jeep Cherokee.

The new 200 will be powered by a standard 2.4L

Tigershark I-4 or optional Pentastar 3.6L V6. The 2.4L Tigershark engine, will produce 184 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque. The Pentastar V6, will produce 295 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both engines will be mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The same all-wheel-drive system found in the Jeep Cherokee will be an option in the 200. The all-wheel-drive system disconnects the rear axle from the drivetrain in order to boost fuel economy.

The Green Light: Chrysler did a really great job on the design of the new 200!!! One major improvement is the interior, which is 100x better than the vehicle it is replacing. There is no doubt that sales of the new 200 will increase just based on the new design. I am really interested in seeing how the new 200 performs on the road.